Washington, DC – Attorney General Karl A. Racine released the below statement today on the settlement agreement that the District reached with Donald L. Gates after a jury found in his favor in a lawsuit over his unjust imprisonment. The lawsuit asserted both federal civil-rights claims and a claim under the District’s Unjust Imprisonment Act.

The $16.65 million agreement settles all damages claims for 27 years of incarceration and any claim for attorney’s fees. The settlement was reached before the jury returned a verdict on damages in the case; therefore, no final judgment will be entered in the matter.

Attorney General Racine’s statement is below:

“No amount of money can compensate Mr. Gates for his loss of freedom. Mr. Gates has shown extraordinary fortitude and dignity, and we wish him well as he proceeds with his life.”